“Simon has done very well with the Residency program and showed no fear when he came into the first-team group in pre-season,” said Whitecaps FC head coach Carl Robinson. “His work ethic and temperament are spot on and I see something in him that I don’t see in many young players.

“Simon has earned this opportunity, but this is the first step on the ladder. The hard work starts now.”

Colyn has signed a multi-year contract with options through 2022 is the third person from the Whitecaps Residency program to sign a futures contract. He is also one of three teenagers on the ’Caps first-team roster.

“It has always been a dream since I was young to play profession so knowing that is coming true it is a big thing for me,” he said. “But it just the beginning and I have to keep going.”

An MLS homegrown player is defined as someone who has come through that particular team’s residency or academy program.

Colyn began playing soccer as a young child with the Langley United Youth Soccer Association before switching to Surrey United Soccer Club and then joining the Whitecaps FC Residency program.

He is the 15th youngest player in league history to sign an MLS contract and the sixth player from the 2002-born age group to earn an MLS contract.

In 21 appearances for the WFC Residency U17 and U19 teams this year, has struck for 13 goals in 21 appearances, including five goals in just six games with the U19 squad.